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Lemon Crinkle Cookies

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Soft, chewy, and packed with fresh lemon flavor, these Lemon Crinkle Cookies are coated in powdered sugar for a signature crackled look. Perfect for citrus lovers year-round.

Ingredients

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  • 2 1/2 cups (313g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (225g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh or bottled lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons (35g) granulated sugar (for rolling)
  • 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until creamed, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract and beat until combined. The mixture may look curdled.
  4. Add the dry ingredients and beat on low speed until the dough comes together. It will be thick and sticky.
  5. Cover and chill the dough for at least 3 hours, or up to 3 days.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Scoop and roll 1 tablespoon of dough into balls. Roll each in granulated sugar first, then generously in confectioners’ sugar.
  8. Place the dough balls 3 inches apart on baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 12–13 minutes until edges are set. If cookies aren’t spreading, remove and bang the sheet on the counter, then continue baking.
  10. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential to prevent overspreading and enhance flavor.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for best results.
  • Double-roll in sugar for a dramatic crinkle effect.
  • Baked cookies stay fresh at room temperature for up to 1 week.
  • Unbaked dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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